Commonwealth connections celebrated at Government House Open Day

Council members of the Royal Commonwealth Society ACT with the Society’s Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, at Government House Open Day, 10 October 2026.

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT enjoyed a memorable day of conversation and community engagement at Government House Open Day on Saturday 10 October 2026, sharing the Society’s history, activities and values with visitors to one of Canberra’s most significant residences.

A particular highlight was a visit from our Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, who warmly greeted the Society at our display.

Her Excellency also took pleasure in explaining the story behind her distinctive Australian wattle brooch, which she told us had been presented as a gift from a fellow Commonwealth nation. It was a delightful personal moment and a fitting reminder of the friendships that connect the Commonwealth.

Thousands of visitors attended the Open Day, with the opportunity to tour the official residence proving one of the most sought-after attractions. Against this welcoming backdrop, the Society’s stall offered an opportunity to introduce our work to a wide range of people, many encountering the Royal Commonwealth Society for the first time.

Our colourful display of flags from the Commonwealth’s 56 member nations proved especially engaging, prompting questions and conversations throughout the day. One enterprising young student impressed us by identifying almost every flag—a remarkable demonstration of geographical knowledge and interest in the wider world.

The Society’s new brochures complemented the display, introducing visitors to our Royal heritage, Commonwealth connections and the activities through which we bring people together. They also gave those interested in learning more something to take home and explore at their leisure.

We were pleased to participate alongside fellow organisations, including the United Nations Association of Australia (ACT Division) and the Order of Australia Association. The occasion provided a welcome opportunity to meet others contributing to community life and international understanding.

Encouragingly, a number of visitors expressed interest in learning more about the Society and taking part in future activities. We look forward to welcoming these new friends and continuing the conversations begun at Government House.

Our sincere thanks go to Her Excellency, the Government House staff and volunteers, and all those who helped organise such an enjoyable occasion. We also thank the Society’s members who assisted with our participation and everyone who stopped to speak with us.

Following such a rewarding day, we look forward to making Government House Open Day a regular feature of the Society’s calendar.

Mauritius Beyond the Postcard

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT welcomed Her Excellency Ms Sarojini Seeneevassen, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius to Australia, as guest speaker at its Winter Warmer Lunch in Canberra on Sunday, 30 August 2026.

RCA ACT Council with Her Excellency Ms Sarojini Seeneevassen, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius to Australia & His Excellency Mr Clifford Borg-Marks, High Commissioner for Malta to Australia.

Addressing Society members, fellow diplomats and leaders from Canberra’s community, the High Commissioner presented “Mauritius: Beyond Postcards” — an engaging exploration of the history, diversity, achievements and future aspirations of her island nation.

RCS ACT President the Hon. Professor Matthew Neuhaus introduced the High Commissioner and highlighted her distinguished career in marine biology, fisheries, diplomacy and international affairs. Her Excellency previously served as Mauritius’s Ambassador to Germany and as an adviser in the Mauritian foreign affairs and fisheries portfolios before presenting her credentials in Australia in September 2025.

The High Commissioner began by reflecting on the shared values of fellowship, cultural understanding and mutual respect that unite the Commonwealth family.

While Mauritius is internationally celebrated for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and outstanding hospitality, Her Excellency invited guests to discover the country’s rich history, vibrant culture and remarkable national story.

Located in the south-west Indian Ocean, approximately 900 kilometres east of Madagascar, Mauritius has a population of about 1.3 million people. Its position at the crossroads of Africa and Asia has helped create a dynamic and outward-looking nation with strong connections across the world.

The High Commissioner traced the island’s history through successive periods of Dutch, French and British influence. She also explored Mauritius’s fascinating connection with the Australian navigator Matthew Flinders, who spent several years on the island during the Napoleonic era.

Flinders travelled extensively in Mauritius and formed friendships within the local community. His time there remains an intriguing historical link between Mauritius and Australia, two nations which today enjoy warm diplomatic and people-to-people relations.

When Mauritius achieved independence in March 1968, it brought together a diverse population with Indian, African, Chinese and European cultural roots. From this diversity, the country forged a distinctive and confident national identity.

English is used in the National Assembly, French remains prominent in business and the media, and Mauritian Creole is the language of everyday life. Hindu, Christian, Muslim and other religious traditions flourish, with major festivals frequently celebrated across community boundaries.

This spirit of inclusion has become one of the defining strengths of Mauritian society. The country demonstrates how different cultures, languages and traditions can enrich a shared national community founded upon cooperation and mutual respect.

Her Excellency also described Mauritius’s impressive economic transformation. Once centred primarily upon sugar, the country successfully diversified into export manufacturing, textiles, tourism, financial services and the digital economy.

Mauritius has developed strong institutions and positioned itself as a bridge for investment between Africa, Asia and the wider world. Its membership of African and regional organisations has strengthened its role as a platform for trade, cooperation and investment across the continent.

Education has been central to the country’s development. Free education from the primary through to tertiary level has supported high literacy, expanded opportunity and helped successive generations contribute to Mauritius’s economic and social progress.

Looking to the future, Mauritius is investing in workforce capability, digital transformation, renewable energy and the blue economy. Sustainable fisheries, marine science and the protection of ocean environments are especially important priorities and offer valuable opportunities for continued cooperation with Australia.

During a lively question-and-answer session, Her Excellency discussed Mauritius’s positive and constructive relationships with countries across the international community. She explained that Mauritius seeks friendship and cooperation with a wide range of partners while maintaining a strong and distinctive national identity.

The High Commissioner also reflected warmly upon the Mauritian diaspora in Australia, one of the largest Mauritian communities outside the country. These extensive family and community connections reinforce a relationship between Australia and Mauritius that reaches back to the earliest period of European settlement in Australia.

Mauritian expertise also contributed to the development of Australia’s sugar industry, adding another important chapter to the longstanding connections between the two countries.

His Excellency Mr Clifford Borg-Marks, High Commissioner for Malta, was also welcomed to the gathering, together with representatives of Canberra’s many communities.

Concluding her address, Her Excellency described Mauritius as much more than a beautiful travel destination. It is a resilient, highly diverse and successful society that has built a strong national identity and an increasingly sophisticated economy.

“Paradise isn’t just something you inherit from nature,” she said. “It is something that people build out of cooperation, education and mutual respect.”

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT warmly thanks Her Excellency for her thoughtful, informative and uplifting address, and all members and guests who contributed to an afternoon celebrating friendship and the enduring connections of the Commonwealth.

The Society also extends its sincere thanks to Padmini and the team at Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant for their warm hospitality, excellent food and generous assistance in making the Winter Warmer Lunch such an enjoyable occasion.

King's Birthday Dinner Celebrates Commonwealth Ties and Pacific Diplomacy

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT and the Australia-Britain Society joined together on Thursday evening for their fourth annual King's Birthday Dinner, bringing together members of the diplomatic corps, community leaders and supporters of the Commonwealth to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III, King of Australia and Head of the Commonwealth.

The dinner attracted distinguished guests from across the Commonwealth family, including representatives from Zambia, Uganda and Nigeria, alongside members and supporters of both societies. The event was jointly organised by the Australia-Britain Society and the Royal Commonwealth Society ACT and has increasingly become one of the most anticipated joint celebrations on the Canberra Commonwealth calendar.

Australia-Britain Society Vice-President Anne Sutton welcomed attendees and reflected on the enduring significance of the Crown and the Commonwealth in contemporary international affairs. The evening commenced with the Loyal Toast to His Majesty The King, proposed by Royal Commonwealth Society committee member Dr Martin Hess, followed by grace delivered by Reverend Sandy Page.

GUEST OF HONOUR

The guest speaker for the evening was Dr Brian Jones, Acting High Commissioner for the United Kingdom. Dr Jones recently assumed the role following the departure of Dame Sarah MacIntosh and brings extensive experience from diplomatic postings throughout the Pacific region.

In a wide-ranging address titled 'Pacific Diplomacy Insights', Dr Jones drew upon his years of service across the Pacific to provide a unique perspective on the region's strategic, political and cultural dynamics.

REFLECTIONS ON THE PACIFIC

Drawing on his experiences in the Solomon Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands and Micronesia, Dr Jones highlighted the complexity of Pacific societies and the importance of understanding local traditions, histories and relationships when engaging diplomatically.

He reflected on the enduring importance of personal relationships in diplomacy and the value of long-term engagement across the Pacific. His remarks underscored the importance of supporting democratic institutions, good governance and the rule of law while recognising the unique histories and cultures that shape each Pacific nation.

Among the most memorable moments of the address were his personal stories from the Solomon Islands, illustrating local leadership, resilience and adaptation in the face of political, economic and environmental challenges. These observations provided guests with valuable insights into a region of growing strategic significance for Australia, the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth.

CELEBRATING THE COMMONWEALTH

The King's Birthday Dinner once again demonstrated the strength of Commonwealth connections in Canberra. With representatives from multiple Commonwealth nations in attendance, the evening provided an opportunity not only to celebrate the King's official birthday but also to reflect on the values of friendship, cooperation and mutual respect that continue to underpin the modern Commonwealth.

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT and the Australia-Britain Society extend their thanks to Dr Brian Jones for his insightful address, to Anne Sutton for her leadership in organising the evening, and to all those who contributed to a memorable celebration of Commonwealth fellowship and shared values.

As the Commonwealth continues to navigate an increasingly complex international environment, events such as the King's Birthday Dinner remain an important opportunity to strengthen connections, encourage dialogue and celebrate the enduring ties that unite Commonwealth nations and peoples.

2026 King’s Birthday Dinner

The Australia-Britain and Royal Commonwealth Societies ACT are pleased to announce the 2026 King’s Birthday Dinner, to be held on Thursday 18 June 2026 at The Commonwealth Club, Yarralumla.

Official Australian Portrait of His Majesty King Charles III. Courtesy of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

The evening will celebrate the fourth year of the reign of His Majesty King Charles III, King of Australia and Head of the Commonwealth.

We are honoured that the Guest of Honour and Speaker for the evening will be Dr Brian Jones, Deputy British High Commissioner to Australia. Dr Jones previously served as British High Commissioner to Fiji and brings extensive diplomatic experience across the Commonwealth.

The event will commence with pre-dinner drinks at 7.00pm, followed by dinner at 7.30pm.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 18 June 2026
Time: 7.00pm for 7.30pm
Venue: The Commonwealth Club
25 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla ACT

Dress: Black Tie and Decorations (miniatures)

Tickets are $135 per person and include pre-dinner drinks, a two-course dinner and wine.

Bookings

RSVP by Sunday 14 June 2026.

Electronic payments may be made using the following details:

BSB: 833 205
Account: 20539 328
Reference: Dinner + Surname and Initial

Following payment, attendees are requested to email a.jsutton@netspeed.com.au with names and any dietary requirements.

The Society looks forward to welcoming members and guests for this important annual occasion in the Commonwealth calendar.

Democracy, Civil Society and the Commonwealth in Focus at 2026 Anthony Low Lecture

The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT, in partnership with the ANU College of Asia & the Pacific and the Commonwealth Round Table in Australia, recently hosted the 2026 Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture at The Australian National University. The event brought together diplomats, academics, civil society leaders, students and members of the Canberra community for a timely and thought-provoking discussion on the future of democracy across the Commonwealth.

Delivered by internationally respected Australian lawyer and scholar Dr Ann Gallagher AO, the lecture — “The Freedom Test: Can the Commonwealth Save Democratic Space?” — examined the growing pressure facing democratic institutions worldwide and whether the Commonwealth still has a meaningful role to play in defending open civic space.

Dr Gallagher, former Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation from 2019 to 2025, drew on more than three decades of experience across the United Nations, ASEAN and Commonwealth institutions. Throughout the lecture she argued that democratic decline rarely occurs suddenly, but instead through a gradual narrowing of public space — where journalists face increasing pressure, civil society organisations encounter mounting restrictions, and freedom of expression slowly erodes.

Speaking candidly about the state of democracy globally and within Commonwealth nations, Dr Gallagher described civil society as “the very best indicator of a country’s democratic health,” warning that democratic backsliding consistently involves weakening the voice and influence of citizens.

The lecture explored “freedom tests” facing modern democracies.

Dr Gallagher argued these issues collectively reveal whether democratic space is expanding or contracting within a society.

A major theme of the evening was the unique role of the Commonwealth itself. While acknowledging criticisms of the organisation as a legacy institution, Dr Gallagher argued that the Commonwealth remains distinctive among international organisations due to its values-based framework, extensive civil society networks and support for smaller states, particularly in the Pacific and developing world.

“The Commonwealth is not its governments,” she told the audience. “It’s the people.”

The lecture also featured reflections on the enduring legacy of Professor Anthony Low AO — former Vice-Chancellor of ANU, distinguished Commonwealth historian and namesake of the annual lecture series. In his closing remarks, RCS ACT President Hon Professor Matthew Neuhaus highlighted Professor Low’s lifelong commitment to democratic values, constitutional governance and the evolving role of the Commonwealth in a post-colonial world.

Professor Neuhaus praised Dr Gallagher’s contribution, noting that her work exemplified the “span” Professor Low believed was essential to understanding international affairs — bridging governments, institutions and civil society.

The evening concluded with an extended audience discussion covering the future of multilateralism, the role of middle powers including Australia and Canada, Commonwealth election observation missions, and the importance of protecting democratic institutions from gradual erosion.

The Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture continues to serve as one of Canberra’s leading forums for discussion on the Commonwealth, international affairs and democratic governance, reflecting the enduring legacy of Professor Low and the continuing relevance of Commonwealth cooperation in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Report by: Hon. Secretary Michael Keating, Image credit: Jamie Kidston/ANU

The Freedom Test: Can the Commonwealth Save Democratic Space?

Anthony Low Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture 2026 Lecture

The Royal Commonwealth Society (ACT Branch), in partnership with the ANU College of Asia & the Pacific and the Commonwealth Round Table in Australia, is pleased to highlight the upcoming Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture 2026—an important annual event examining the evolving role of the Commonwealth in global affairs.

This year’s lecture will be delivered by Dr Anne Therese Gallagher AO, one of Australia’s most distinguished legal scholars and international policy leaders.

Scan the QR code for registration and event details.

About the Lecture

At a time when democratic institutions are facing increasing pressure worldwide, this year’s lecture addresses a critical and timely question:

Can the Commonwealth play a meaningful role in protecting democratic space?

As outlined in the official lecture materials , democracy is not necessarily eroding through sudden collapse, but through a gradual narrowing of public space—where journalists are silenced, civil society is restricted, and open debate becomes constrained.

Drawing on her extensive leadership experience across the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and ASEAN, Dr Gallagher will explore whether the Commonwealth—often viewed as a legacy institution—may in fact hold renewed relevance in safeguarding democratic values across its 56 member states and 2.7 billion people.

At the heart of the discussion is what has been termed the “freedom test”—whether the Commonwealth, alongside its civil society networks and institutions, can effectively uphold the conditions necessary for democratic life.

About the Speaker

Dr Anne Therese Gallagher AO is widely recognised as a global authority on international law, particularly in the field of human trafficking. Her career spans more than three decades of senior leadership across international organisations, including her recent role as Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation (2019–2025) .

She brings a rare combination of frontline policy expertise, legal scholarship, and deep engagement with multilateral institutions.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, 30 April

• Time: 6:00pm – 7:00pm

• Location: Lecture Theatre 1 (HB1), Hedley Bull Building,
  130 Garran Road, Australian National University

• Format: In-person only

• Registration: Essential (limited seating)

About the Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture

The lecture is named in honour of Professor Donald Anthony Low AO, former Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University (1975–1982) and a distinguished scholar of Commonwealth history .

The annual lecture series reflects his enduring legacy in advancing scholarship, international engagement, and understanding of the Commonwealth’s role in global affairs.

Why This Lecture Matters

In an era marked by geopolitical uncertainty and democratic strain, this lecture provides an opportunity to reflect on:

• The future relevance of the Commonwealth

• The role of civil society in sustaining democratic systems

• The practical mechanisms for protecting open civic space

• Australia’s place within the Commonwealth network

For members, policymakers, students, and those engaged in international affairs, this is a timely and significant conversation.

Register to Attend

Attendees are encouraged to register early due to limited seating.

👉 Scan the QR code below for full details and registration in addition here is the link to the registration website: https://events.humanitix.com/anthony-low-commonwealth-lecture-2026

Report by: Hon. Secretary Michael Keating

Commonwealth Day in The Capital

Commonwealth Day, observed on Canberra Day, was marked in Canberra with a vibrant multi-faith service at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture (ACCC). Well over 200 members of the Canberra community gathered for the occasion, bringing together residents, community leaders, diplomats and representatives of faith groups to celebrate the diversity and shared values of the 56-nation Commonwealth.

Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC delivering the King’s Commonwealth Day message at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture in Canberra.

A highlight of the event was the reading of King Charles III’s 2026 Commonwealth Day message by Australia’s Governor-General, Hon Sam Mostyn. She also added reflections of her own on the importance of the Commonwealth family across the world, and the way the day brings Australians in all their diversity together in a spirit of unity.

In the message, The King reflected on the Commonwealth as a unique family of nations spanning every continent and ocean, united by principles of democracy, justice, compassion and mutual respect. He noted that the world faces increasing pressures—from conflict to climate change and rapid global transformation—but emphasised that it is in such moments that the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth becomes most evident. The King encouraged member nations to continue working together so the Commonwealth remains a force for good, committed to “restorative sustainability” and strengthened by friendship and cooperation. The full message can be read here: The King's Commonwealth Day Message 2026

Commonwealth Day Celebration Committee Chair Kanti Jinna OAM

The Canberra Multifaith Celebration with the Commonwealth theme of “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth” featured the delivery of the Commonwealth Day message from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, presented by David Smith MP, Member for Bean. The President of The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT Hon. Professor Matthew Neuhaus, addressed the gathering and reflected on the theme and highlighting the important example the Commonwealth spirit of unity in diversity, which speaks to a world of chaos and conflict. At the end of the event, Commonwealth Day Celebration Committee Chair Kanti Jinna OAM gave a warm vote of thanks to the Governor General and all participants, and to Dr Peter Sherlock, Sarah Stitt and the ACCC for its generous support and hosting.

Cultural preformance by Cook-Island dancers

The service blended formal messages with cultural performances that reflected the diversity of the national capital. Fijian Lali drums welcomed the Governor-General, while the Papua New Guinea Peroveta singers of Canberra performed traditional hymns. Passion & Purpose Academy showcased Afro and hip-hop dance celebrating youth diversity, and Prosperous Mountain Dragon and Lion Dance presented a traditional Chinese lion dance performance. Polynesian dance by Te Hani O Tiare and Indian classical dance by Renga Nrithyalaya added to the rich cultural program, while A Chorus of Women performed “Ubuntu,” a song celebrating the interconnectedness of humanity.

Multi-faith prayers from Jewish, Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jain and Sikh representatives highlighted Canberra’s inclusive community spirit. With High Commissioners of Commonwealth Nations and residents gathered, the celebration reflected Canberra’s unique role as Australia’s diplomatic capital and demonstrated how the Commonwealth’s ideals of friendship, cooperation and shared purpose continue to resonate within Canberra’s diverse community.

Report by: President RCS ACT Hon. Professor Matthew Neuhaus /Hon. Secretary Michael Keating

Commonwealth Day Celebrations 2025, Canberra

The Commonwealth Day Multi-faith Service, Canberra, 2025, featured messages from King Charles, Prime Minister Albanese, and Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jain, Jewish and Sikh Community leaders.

Included in the photo gallery: Governor General, Knights of Bhangra Dancers, African Community Catholic Choir, Canberra Tongan Language and Performing Arts School.

Meet Our Patron: The Governor General of Australia

Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC
Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Ms Sam Mostyn AC was sworn in as Australia’s 28th Governor-General on 1 July 2024. 

A businesswoman and community leader, Ms Mostyn is known for her exceptional service to the Australian community. She has a long history in executive and governance roles across diverse sectors, including business, sport, climate change, the arts, policy and not-for-profit.

In 2024, Ms Mostyn was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service in the social justice, gender equity, sporting, cultural and business sectors, to reconciliation, and to environmental sustainability. She had previously been appointed an Officer of the Order in 2021.

For her continued contribution as an advocate for gender inclusion and equality, sustainability, and climate change action, Ms Mostyn was awarded the 2020 United Nations Day Honour Award and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the Australian National University in 2018.  

Most recently, Ms Mostyn chaired the boards of Aware Super, Centre for Policy Development, Beyond Blue, Australians Investing in Women, Foundation for Young Australians, Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce, Australian National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety (ANROWS) and The Climate Council. 

She has also served on the boards of some of Australia’s leading companies including Mirvac, Citi Australia, Transurban and Virgin Australia. 

She dedicated more than a decade to the boards of the GO Foundation and Climateworks Australia, during this time she also served on the boards of Tonic Media and Global Business & Sustainable Development Commission.

Ms Mostyn was a Commissioner with the Australian Football League for over a decade until 2017. 

She has also been a strong supporter of women in sport, and was an advocate for the creation of the AFL Women’s league and co-founded the Minerva Network, Australia’s only mentorship and development program dedicated to professional female athletes.

From 2013–2017, she was President of the Australian Council for International Development. 

Ms Mostyn became an inaugural commissioner with the National Mental Health Commission in 2012 and Deputy Chair of the Diversity Council of Australia in 2010. She served on the Australian faculty of the Cambridge University Business & Sustainability Leadership Program from 2010–2024. 

She has contributed to independent reviews for the betterment of the community as a member of the panel of the Crawford Sports Funding Review (2009), and Review of the Treatment of Women in the Australian Defence Force (2012). She chaired the NSW Government Women’s Economic Opportunities Review (2022), and Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce report (2023).

She also held membership to the boards of Reconciliation Australia and Australia Council for the Arts.

Before taking on non-executive roles, she held senior executive roles at Insurance Australia Group, Optus, and Cable & Wireless plc.

Ms Mostyn is married to Mr Simeon Beckett SC and they have an adult daughter, Lotte Beckett. Ms Mostyn is an avid Sydney Swans fan, and served on the board from 2017–2024. 

Vale Captain Bill Owen RN and RAN

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of one of our most cherished members, Captain William (Bill) Lloyd Owen RN and RAN. Bill passed away peacefully in a nursing home in Bundanoon, NSW on Friday 4 October 2024.

Bill finished school in England towards the end of the war and was evacuated to Coventry and was there when that city was bombed by the Luftwaffe. That might explain his rather controversial views on the indiscriminate RAF bombing of German cities, which he opposed vocally, even at the risk of his own naval career. Bill joined the Royal Navy right at the end of the war. He was serving on HMS Glasgow in the immediate post-war period. Glasgow was one of the first RN ships to sail to Singapore in an attempt to reclaim that former British colony. Glasgow was ordered to reposition to South Africa for refit. He then returned to England. After completing officer training Bill became a submariner. He skippered the first British warship, HMS Subtle, into a German port, Wilhelmshaven, in the post war period. He was amused by the fact that when asked what the word ‘subtle’ meant, there was no direct translation in the German language! He spent six months courtesy of the RN in Bavaria learning the German language and became fluent. He was initially thought of as a British spy, but managed to win over many of those he met, in his customary way. He regularly corresponded with these German friends over the years, even after he moved to Australia with the Royal Australian Navy. Another feat before leaving Britain was to skipper a RN submarine under the polar ice cap where he surfaced so the crew could have  quick game of cricket. He finished his naval career as OIC of the RAN Submarine Squadron, based at HMAS Platypus at Neutral Bay in Sydney.

In brief, they just don’t make them like him anymore.

These words from the Police Ode, reflect Bill’s long service history:

As the sun surely sets                                                 

dawn will see it arise,                                          

for service, above self,                                                                                                    

demands its own prize.                                                                                                      

You have fought the good fight:                                                    

life’s race has been run,                                                                                                   

and peace, your reward,                                                                                                                  

for eternity begun.                                                                                        

And we that are left,                                                                                                       

shall never forget,                                                                                                                                       

rest in peace friend and colleague,                                                                              

for the sun has now set.  

Vale Captain Bill Owen. You will be sorely missed.  

Bill was a long-time and valued member of the RCS ACT Branch.  He was 98. A Celebration of Bill’s life and a Wake will be held in Saturday 16 November 2024 at 1400.

to RSVP click here

to RSVP click here

Banner Photo: Bill Owen (Left) with Matin Hess (Membership Secretary, RCS ACT)

Professor Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture 2024

The Professor Anthony Low Commonwealth Lecture 2024

John McCarthy AO,

The Crawford School, Australian National University

23 July 2024

CLICK HERE for the TRANSCRIPT

of John McCarthy’s Presentation

King's Birthday Dinner 2024, Canberra

King’s Birthday Dinner in Canberra

The British High Commissioner, H.E. Mrs Vicki Treadell, was guest speaker at this year’s King’s Birthday dinner at the Commonwealth Club, jointly hosted by the RCS and the Australia-Britain Society.

In a wide-ranging address, during which varied aspects of Australia’s relationship with Britain were covered, Mrs Treadell spoke strongly in support of the Commonwealth’s former British colonies, and ‘realms’ like Canada and Australia, which had so far chosen to remain constitutional monarchies. ‘I would much prefer to be a High Commissioner,’ she said, ‘than an Ambassador.’

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

The High Commissioner also spoke about the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the first time that Heads will have met in a ‘Small Island Developing State’ from the Pacific. Samoa’s High Commissioner to Australia, H.E. Ms Hinauri Petana, was among guests at the dinner. Samoa remains a constitutional monarchy after more than 60 years of independence from Britain.

The theme chosen to mark this year’s CHOGM is One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth.  The Meeting will decide on a new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth to replace the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC who has completed two terms.

The Meeting, from 21 to 26 October, will mark the 75th anniversary of CHOGM.